Name: ________________________________________ Date: __________ Block: _______
Romeo and Juliet Humor and Pun Exit Slip
1. Define pun.
2. Define bawdy humor.
3. The following are examples of puns from Romeo and Juliet, Act I, scene i. Choose one of the
puns and then explain what exactly makes the pun funny.
Pun #1:
Sampson: ….When I have fought with the maids, I will be civil with the maids—I will cut off their
heads.
Gregory: The heads of the maids?
Sampson: Ay, the heads of the maids or their maidenheads. Take in what sense thou wilt.
Pun #2:
Sampson: Me they shall feel while I am able to stand; and, ‘tis known that I am a pretty piece of
flesh.
Gregory: …Draw thy tool! Here comes two of the house of Montagues.
Sampson: My naked weapon is out! Quarrel! I will back thee.
Chosen Pun #_____
Explain why the Shakespearean pun is supposed to be funny. (Hint: For help, look at the
underlined words. How are they similar?) Three sentences.
4. Explain why you think Shakespeare started the play this way? What was he trying to
accomplish? How does this beginning fit with or alter your preconceived notions about Romeo
and Juliet?
Formative Rubric:
15 pts = 5
Exemplary/
Above and
Beyond
14 pts = 4
Proficient/
You Got It
13.5 pts= 3
Competent/
Room for Growth
12 pts = 2
Developing/
Need More Practice
10 pts = 1
Completed, but
Try Again
9-0 pts = 0
Incomplete